Australian opener Usman Khawaja has given advice to his new opening partner Nathan McSweeney not to feel pressured to bat like David Warner, known for his aggressive and fast-scoring style. McSweeney is set to debut in the upcoming Test series against India, replacing Warner, who retired earlier this year.
McSweeney, generally known for his patient batting style, has a first-class strike rate of 41.92, while Warner boasts a strike rate of over 70.
"I don't know where this myth started that you need someone to score really fast to do well. You've got five days to do it ... I don't know why you need to score fast. Opening's as much about scoring runs as it is about being able to absorb," said Khawaja.
Khawaja emphasized that scoring quickly is not mandatory for Test openers.
Warner's quick starts often provided Australia with a strong beginning in Test matches. However, Khawaja believes McSweeney has a different style and can contribute by building a solid foundation instead of focusing on scoring rapidly.
"Davey was special, he could score runs while absorbing, but he didn't do it (score fast) every time. He was consistent, out there and setting a platform, and Nathan does that very well," Khawaja said.
McSweeney, typically a number three batsman for South Australia, will be opening the batting, a new role for him.
However, Khawaja expressed confidence in McSweeney's temperament, believing he can succeed at the Test level.
"There's no guarantees in cricket ... but he doesn't have to do anything different. Just repeat the process. He's been able to handle the pressure at Shield level," Khawaja added.
Khawaja praised McSweeney's calm demeanor, suggesting it will help him handle the pressure and scrutiny that accompany Test cricket.
"When you look at his demeanor, the way he plays, you do kind of feel over a longer period of time he'll be able to handle the scrutiny, the pressure of Test cricket," Khawaja said.
The Australian team is preparing for a challenging five-match Test series against India. The first Test match will be played in Perth on November 22.
McSweeney will be looking to establish himself as Khawaja's new opening partner and create his own path in Test cricket.
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